Compassionate innovation: reframing ethical innovation through the relational lens of dependent origination

Innovation is an inherently relational process that unfolds across interconnected human, technological, and ecological systems. This paper advances the theory of ethical innovation through the Compassionate Innovation Framework (CIF), grounded in Nāgārjunian philosophy: śūnyatā (non-essentialism), pratītyasamutpāda (dependent origination), and karuṇā (compassion). CIF conceptualizes compassion as a purposive organizational capability expressed through three interdependent dimensions: conscientiousness (systemic awareness of consequences), mindfulness (context-sensitive ethical reflexivity), and vigilance (continuous learning and adaptive governance). Together, these translate compassion from moral intention into a dynamic capability for value creation under uncertainty. The paper contributes by offering a relational ontology that redefines innovation as an act of interdependence; extending responsible innovation beyond anthropocentric and procedural ethics; and providing actionable principles for cultivating ethical resilience. CIF positions compassion as a strategic capability that integrates moral insight with performance, offering a coherent alternative to Western-centric models of innovation and responsibility.